From the Vibrant Streets of Naples to the Charming Canals of Gothenburg: A 12-Day European Adventure
Prepare yourself for an unforgettable journey that starts amidst the sun-drenched piazzas and historic ruins of Naples, Italy, and wanders north through tranquil landscapes and lively cities before culminating in the picturesque, waterfront beauty of Gothenburg, Sweden. Along the way, you'll encounter mouthwatering local cuisines, awe-inspiring landmarks, hidden gems known only to locals, and vibrant events that celebrate the unique cultures of each destination. This itinerary balances iconic highlights with off-the-beaten-path experiences, ensuring every day bursts with excitement — but occasionally, a word of caution is necessary to help you avoid tourist traps and make the most of your trip.
Day 1-3: Enchanting Naples – The Heartbeat of Southern Italy
Day 1: Arrival in Naples
Dive straight into the lively chaos of Naples, a city where history and passion sizzle as hot as a wood-fired pizza. Wander through Spaccanapoli, the narrow street that splits the old town, and marvel at centuries-old churches and street art. Be sure to sample the iconic Neapolitan pizza at Da Michele, a humble pizzeria beloved by locals and travelers alike. Budget travelers can grab a slice from street vendors at just a few euros, while gourmets might want to elevate their meal at Palazzo Petrucci with its elegant spin on classic dishes.
Day 2: Historic Wonders and Hidden Gems
Visit the sprawling Museo Archeologico Nazionale to get up close to Pompeii relics, then escape the crowds by heading to the Certosa di San Martino monastery overlooking the bay. Here, the views of Mount Vesuvius and the sparkling sea are breathtaking. Warning: avoid the souvenir stalls near the tourist sites late in the day, as prices tend to hike unfairly. For dinner, try Trattoria da Nennella, where animated staff and hearty traditional fare create a lively atmosphere.
Day 3: A Day to Remember in Naples
I vividly recall my morning wandering the vibrant Mercato di Porta Nolana. The buzz of vendors shouting, fragrant aromas of fresh seafood and ripe produce, and the brilliant colors of fresh fruit and vegetables made me feel fully immersed in Neapolitan life. Bartering with the fishmongers and tasting fresh mozzarella right at the market was a highlight. Later, I took a ferry from Molo Beverello to the island of Capri — a soothing 40-minute ride across the shimmering bay. While Capri is stunning, I recommend going off-peak; otherwise, the crowds can dampen the serenity. In the evening, I savored a sunset aperitivo at Gran Caffè Gambrinus, watching the city lights twinkle against Vesuvius’s silhouette. This day was the perfect blend of bustling city life and peaceful escapes.
Travel Options to Next Destination:
Preferred: Take the high-speed train from Napoli Centrale to Rome Termini (approx. 1 hour 10 minutes) then transfer to a northbound train towards Milan; alight at Milan Centrale and continue your journey to Gothenburg by flight or train.
Alternative: Rent a car and drive north for a scenic route through Italy’s countryside and across the Alps to southern Germany before heading towards Sweden — expect about 18-20 hours spread over two days with overnight stops.
Day 4-6: Captivating Milan – Fashion, Art, and Milanese Flair
Day 4: Arrival in Milan
Milan strikes a sophisticated tone with its gleaming skyscrapers, historic cathedrals, and a world-class arts scene. Start at the iconic Duomo di Milano; the rooftop terraces offer panoramic city views that will leave you speechless. For a light lunch, indulge in the traditional Milanese risotto alla Milanese at Ratanà, which balances elegance with approachable pricing. Budget travelers will find reliable and tasty options at the nearby Luini bakery, famous for its panzerotti.
Day 5: Art, Shopping, and Nightlife
No visit to Milan is complete without a glimpse of Leonardo da Vinci's The Last Supper (book tickets well in advance!). After this, explore the Brera district’s charming streets covered in artisan boutiques and galleries. At night, the Navigli canal district buzzes with aperitivo bars where locals sip cocktails beside shimmering waterways. For a high-end dining experience, try Cracco, where avant-garde cuisine elevates classic Italian flavors.
Day 6: A Day Living Milanese Style
On this day, I decided to venture beyond the usual tourist hubs. After a leisurely breakfast of espresso and fresh cornetto, I strolled through Parco Sempione, a green oasis perfect for a morning jog or picnic. Later, I visited the hidden gem of Villa Necchi Campiglio, an elegant 1930s villa filled with art and history not often crowded. For lunch, I tried a humble street-side panzerotto — a delicious fried pastry filled with tomato and mozzarella — which quickly became my favorite snack. The afternoon was spent roaming the lesser-known antique shops in the Ticinese neighborhood. That evening, I savored seafood risotto at Osteria del Binari, enjoying the warm, intimate ambiance that made me feel like a genuine Milanese. This day was a perfect mix of discovery and indulgence without the hustle of central touristy areas.
Travel Options to Next Destination:
Preferred: Fly from Milan Malpensa Airport to Gothenburg Landvetter Airport (approx. 2 hours 15 minutes).
Alternative: Take the train north to Zurich or Hamburg, then continue internationally by train or bus towards Gothenburg — a longer but scenic option adventurous travelers may enjoy.
Day 7-9: Charming Gothenburg – Sweden’s Cozy Coastal Gem
Day 7: Welcome to Gothenburg
Arriving in Gothenburg, you’re greeted by cobblestone streets, colorful canals, and an unmistakable Scandinavian chill mixed with warm hospitality. Stroll around Haga, the oldest district, where wooden houses and cozy cafés invite you to slow down. For dinner, Sjömagasinet offers outstanding seafood dishes at a high-end price point while Smaka presents affordable, authentic Swedish comfort food like meatballs and lingonberry sauce.
Day 8: Exploring Islands and Streets
Take a ferry from Saltholmen to the Southern Archipelago where cars are replaced by bicycles and nature hikes abound — a perfect escape from urban life. Back in town, visit the Universeum Science Center or check out the lively street art scene downtown. Avoid weekend evenings at the Liseberg amusement park if crowds aren’t your thing, but don’t miss the festive atmosphere if you love rides and shows.
Day 9: Experiencing Swedish Warmth in Depth
One chill morning, I found myself nestled at a small café in Haga, savoring a cinnamon bun paired with steaming coffee — a classic Swedish fika that felt like a warm hug. Later, wandering the fish market at Feskekôrka, I indulged in freshly shucked oysters and learned about sustainable fishing from passionate vendors. The afternoon was spent cycling along the Göta River, taking in the tidy parks, elegant bridges, and colorful houseboats. Dinner was a delightful surprise at a hidden bistro, where the chef personally recommended fermented herring — a bold taste that challenged but ultimately delighted my palate. Ending the day with a walk along the lit-up canals, I felt utterly enchanted by Gothenburg’s blend of vibrant culture and peaceful charm.
Travel Options:
Preferred: Use Gothenburg’s efficient tram network and buses to explore all corners of the city and nearby archipelago islands.
Alternative: Rent a bicycle or electric scooter for greater flexibility and a fun way to navigate the flat cityscape.
